Few people know that J.L. Long Middle School and the Texas State Fair Hall of
State building have something in common. In 1934, students watched as
well-known local Dallas artist from the era, artist Olin Herman Travis
(1888-1975), painted the “Food” mural in the school library. It was one
of the WPA arts projects produced in Dallas during the Depression. Mr. Travis
is also known for two murals he painted in the Hall of State at Fair Park.